Top-Rated Luxury SUVs Under $50,000 in the 2017 Initial Quality Study

Top-Rated Luxury SUVs Under $50,000 in the 2017 Initial Quality Study

By Christian Wardlaw, June 21, 2017

The J.D. Power Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) is a benchmark of owner satisfaction with new-vehicle quality, measuring defect and design problems as reported by new-vehicle owners during the first 90 days of ownership. This year, the 2017 IQS is based on more than 77,000 survey responses.

From this research, J.D. Power generates Power Circle Ratings, which are designed to visually summarize the study’s findings in order to serve as a reference tool for consumers when they shop for a new vehicle.

This buyer’s guide highlights the top-rated 2017 luxury SUVs with a base price of less than $50,000. Each model earns a Power Circle Rating of 4 or 5 out of a possible 5 for initial quality in the latest IQS.

A compact crossover SUV based on the previous-generation Honda CR-V but equipped with unique exterior design, a completely different interior, and a V-6 engine that isn’t offered in the Honda, the Acura RDX is a high-quality luxury SUV. For 2017, new paint colors are the only change.

The 2017 Acura RDX receives an initial quality Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.

2017 BMW X3

In what is expected to be its final year before a complete redesign, the BMW X3 receives an upgraded iDrive infotainment system, wireless device charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot connection. New colors are available, and the 6-cylinder versions gain standard equipment. The X3 is offered with a choice between a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 6-cylinder engine.

The 2017 BMW X3 receives an initial quality Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.

2016 BMW X4

Essentially, the BMW X4 is a more expensive and less useful version of the BMW X3. It has the fastback hatch styling that is becoming so fashionable, and yes, BMW calls it a Sports Activity Coupe. The X4 xDrive 28i has a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, while the M40i replaces the previous xDrive35i and has a performance-tuned turbocharged 6-cylinder engine. Additional updates include an improved infotainment system, wireless device charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2017 BMW X4 receives an initial quality Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.

2017 Lincoln MKC

Lincoln has started offering valet service for scheduled maintenance appointments, and the MKC also receives a new Sync 3 infotainment system with faster response time, improved graphics, and better menu structures. Lincoln also adds more standard equipment to its Ford Escape-based luxury crossover.

The 2017 Lincoln MKC receives an initial quality Power Circle Rating of 4 out of 5.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

The Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class crossover is based on the CLA-Class sedan, which the company calls a coupe. For 2017, the company made changes designed to improve the interior, upgraded the infotainment system with new features, and started offering a Dinamica simulated suede interior material.

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class receives an initial quality Power Circle Rating of 5 out of 5 and is the award recipient in the Small Premium SUV segment.

2017 Porsche Macan

Porsche’s popular compact crossover enters its third year of production with an expanded lineup. The base models are equipped with a less powerful (and less expensive) turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, and Porsche debuts a GTS version that slots between the existing Macan S and Macan Turbo. The company also installs the latest Porsche infotainment system in its small SUV.

The 2017 Porsche Macan receives an initial quality Power Circle Rating of 5 out of 5 and is the award recipient in the Compact Premium SUV segment.